Housing Rights
Your home is your safe place. Whether you rent a room or an apartment, the law gives you real rights, and they belong to you.
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Three things to know
If you only read one section, read this one.
It is illegal in nearly every state for a landlord to lock you out without a court order.
Tenant rights apply to you regardless of immigration status. An eviction still requires notice and a court hearing.
In many states, survivors of domestic violence can end a lease early or have their locks changed.
What does the law say?
The rules, in everyday words.
Your lease is a contract
A lease is an agreement between you and your landlord, and it binds both of you. In many states, your landlord must give notice before entering your home, except in an emergency.
You have a right to repairs
In most states, landlords must keep your home safe and livable, with working heat, water, and locks. Ask for repairs in writing and keep a copy of every request.
Eviction must go through a court
A landlord cannot change your locks, remove your things, or cut utilities to push you out. That is called a self-help eviction, and it is illegal in nearly every state. Legal eviction requires written notice and a court hearing.
Survivors of abuse have extra protections
A federal law called VAWA, the Violence Against Women Act, protects survivors in most government supported housing. In many states, survivors can also end a lease early or ask for new locks.
What can I do next?
- 1Keep your own records Keep a copy of your lease, rent receipts, and photos of your home's condition. If you do not have a copy of your lease, ask your landlord for one in writing.
- 2Put repair requests in writing Text or email your landlord about needed repairs and save the message. A dated written record protects you far better than a phone call.
- 3Get help fast if you are locked out If your locks are changed or utilities cut without a court order, call your local legal aid office right away. In many states, courts can order the landlord to let you back in.
- 4Answer every court paper If you receive an eviction notice, do not ignore it and do not move out right away. Respond by the deadline and go to the hearing. Many renters win or get more time.
- 5Report unfair treatment If a landlord treats you unfairly because of your race, color, religion, national origin, sex, disability, or because you have children, you can file a free complaint with HUD, the federal housing agency.
Who can help for free?
Real people, no cost, and interpreters are available when you ask.
HUD (U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development)
Takes free housing discrimination complaints and enforces fair housing laws nationwide.
WomensLaw.org
Plain-language legal information for abuse survivors, state by state, with a free email hotline.
LawHelp.org
Helps you find free legal aid offices and tenant rights guides in your state.
National Domestic Violence Hotline
Free, confidential help 24 hours a day, in many languages. Text START to 88788.